Mizael Ramos (he, him)
City: New York, NY
Profession: Youth Development, Coaching, Empowerment
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Favorite Movie: The 5th Element
First Concert: Beyoncé
Farthest Travel Destination: Mexico
Unique Interest: “I like to sing in the shower, I could dead ass ride a one wheel bike lol, I love to hug trees and tell the l love them.”
Favorite Quote or Personal Motto: ”It takes a village to help one.”
Mizael Ramos is a CASAC-T certified substance abuse counselor with over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, having worked with organizations such as Grand Street Settlement, University Settlement, The Door, Hetrick-Martin Institute, CAMBA, ICL, and Cardinal McCloskey. He serves on the board of Ballroom We Care, supporting the Ballroom community around crystal meth use and mental health, and is a member of the EYEZ Coalition at Hetrick-Martin Institute, advocating for the well-being of Black and Brown LGBTQIA+ youth.
If elected, what would you bring to The Blackyard Collective and the BYC Advisory Board?
Passionate about recovery, community empowerment, and creative expression, I am dedicated to building inclusive spaces that support individuals—especially within the LGBTQIA community—on their journey toward sobriety. My work centers on connecting people in early recovery with vital resources, peer advocates, and empowering support systems that promote healing and personal growth.
Through strategic partnerships and community collaboration, I create opportunities for education, outreach, and ongoing support services that meet people where they are. I believe in the transformative power of creativity and have developed a variety of healing-centered workshops and events—including sober open mics, dance gatherings, and artistic expression groups—that offer safe, joyful, and affirming environments for people to explore and celebrate their recovery.
Fundraising and advocacy are also at the heart of what I do, ensuring that these programs are sustainable and accessible to all. By curating engaging, community-driven initiatives across the New York City area, I aim to uplift voices often left unheard and inspire others through lived experience, authenticity, and leadership.
